Why drinks matter with Mexican food
Mexican food is full of lime, chilli, herbs and slow-cooked richness. The right drinks cool the heat, cut through rich fillings and refresh the palate. Mexico has a long tradition of both alcoholic drinks and fresh, alcohol-free ones, which means there’s something for every guest at your event.
Aguas frescas
Aguas frescas (literally ‘fresh waters’) are light, alcohol-free drinks sold across Mexico. They’re a good way to make sure non-drinkers have something just as interesting as everyone else.
- Agua de jamaica: made from dried hibiscus flowers. Deep red, tart and refreshing.
- Horchata: a sweet, milky-looking drink usually made from rice and cinnamon. Some versions contain dairy or nuts, so check the allergens.
- Tamarind (agua de tamarindo): sweet and sour, made from tamarind pods.
- Fruit waters: made with fresh fruit such as watermelon, pineapple or cucumber and lime.
Margaritas and palomas
The margarita is the best-known Mexican cocktail: tequila, lime and orange liqueur, often with a salted rim. Fruit versions are popular at events. The paloma, made with tequila and grapefruit soda, is lighter and less sweet, and it’s a popular everyday choice in Mexico. Both suit warm afternoons and evening parties. Our margarita bar guide explains how to plan one.
Mexican beer
Mexican lagers are light and crisp, which is why they go so well with spicy food. They’re often served very cold with a wedge of lime. A michelada, beer mixed with lime, salt and spices, is a popular variation.
Tequila and mezcal
Tequila is made from blue agave, mainly in the state of Jalisco. Mezcal is made from various types of agave and often has a smoky flavour. At events they’re usually served in cocktails rather than neat, but a tasting of good tequila or mezcal can be a fun extra for an adults’ party.
Soft drinks
Mexican soft drinks, such as fruit-flavoured sodas, are a colourful choice for children and non-drinkers alongside aguas frescas and water.
Pairing drinks with food
- Rich, slow-cooked fillings such as carnitas or birria go well with something sharp: a margarita, a paloma or agua de jamaica.
- Spicy salsas are best with a cold, light beer or a sweet, creamy horchata.
- Fresh, citrusy tacos suit fruit waters and lighter cocktails.
- Nachos and quesadillas pair well with beer and soft drinks.
You don’t need to match every dish. Two or three drinks plus alcohol-free options covers most events.
Licensing and responsible serving
If alcohol is being sold at your event, the venue or event needs the right licence: either a premises licence or, for smaller events, a Temporary Event Notice given to the local council in advance. Alcohol must not be sold to under-18s or to anyone who is drunk. Always offer water and alcohol-free choices, and make sure food is available. We’ll check the licensing with you if you book our Mexican drinks bar.
Serving drinks at an event
Jugs of aguas frescas and pre-batched cocktails speed up service for large numbers, while cocktails made to order feel more special but take longer. Many events do both: jugs and beer for speed, with one signature cocktail made fresh. Keep the drinks station away from the food queue, with plenty of ice and a clear menu board.
Allergens in drinks
Drinks can contain allergens too. Horchata may contain milk or nuts, some mixers contain sulphites, and beer contains gluten from barley or wheat. Ask for allergen information for drinks as well as food.
Getting a quote
Our drinks bar can serve margaritas, Mexican beer, aguas frescas and soft drinks, with bar staff. Tell us your date, venue and numbers, and contact us for a quote through our quote form.
Planning an event? Tell us about it and we’ll suggest a menu and send a quote for your event.